DRDO Scientist Arrested: Chargesheet Reveals Connection with Alleged Pakistani Intelligence Operative

The Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) has mentioned in its chargesheet that the recently arrested DRDO scientist, Pradeep Kurulkar, was attracted to an alleged Pakistani intelligence operative who operated under the alias ‘Zara Dasgupta’. The chargesheet reveals that Kurulkar engaged in discussions with ‘Zara’ about various classified defense projects, including Indian missile systems.

According to the charge sheet, Kurulkar and ‘Zara Dasgupta’ communicated through WhatsApp and voice and video calls. The operative initially approached Kurulkar by sending explicit messages and videos. ‘Zara’ claimed to be a UK-based software engineer, but investigations traced her IP address back to Pakistan.

The Pakistani agent attempted to obtain classified and sensitive information concerning defense projects such as the Brahmos Launcher, Drone technology, UCV (Unmanned Combat Vehicle), Agni Missile Launcher, and Military Bridging System, among others.

The chargesheet further states that Kurulkar stored classified information on his phone and allegedly shared it with ‘Zara.’ Their conversations spanned various projects, including surface-to-air missiles (SAM), drones, Brahmos and Agni Missile Launchers, and UCV.

The ATS reported that the contact between Kurulkar and ‘Zara’ lasted from June 2022 to December 2022. Pradeep Kurulkar was arrested on May 3 under the Official Secrets Act and is currently in judicial custody.

This development raises concerns about the security of sensitive defense information and the potential threats foreign intelligence agencies pose. The case highlights the importance of stringent security measures and continuous vigilance to safeguard national defense interests.